At least 16 civilians were killed in an airstrike by Nigeria's military in the north-western Zamfara State. The strike, which targeted suspected criminal gangs, was apparently a mistake, as the victims were later identified as local vigilante members and civilians who were fighting back against armed groups known for kidnapping people for ransom.
The airstrikes took place in the Zurmi and Maradun areas of Zamfara. These areas have been hotspots for violent gangs, often referred to as "bandits," who terrorize local communities. Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara expressed his condolences to the victims' families and the community, emphasizing the impact on the local population.
The Nigerian military confirmed that the airstrikes were aimed at militant groups responsible for terrorizing villages in the region. They claimed that the operation successfully eliminated several bandits and rescued some kidnap victims. However, they acknowledged the loss of civilian lives in the operation and expressed concern over the mistake.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) stated that it was investigating reports of vigilante casualties and has launched a "comprehensive investigation" to determine the exact circumstances of the airstrike. In a statement, the NAF said it would keep the public informed about the results of the inquiry and reassured the community that it would address any mistakes made during the operation.
This tragic incident has raised concerns about the dangers of targeting militant groups in civilian areas and the risks involved in airstrikes that may inadvertently harm local residents. It also highlights the ongoing struggle between Nigeria's military and criminal gangs in the north-west, which have continued to cause instability and violence across the region.
News
Eight Killed, Over 400 Injured in Protests Across 23 Counties
Eight people were killed and more than 400 injured during nationwide protests held across Kenya, according to a joint statement by human rights groups.
Outrage in Nyandarua as Suspect Found Dead in Police Cell
Tension is rising in Nyandarua County after a suspect was found dead in a police cell under unclear circumstances, with residents and leaders calling for justice and transparency in the investigation.
Student Declared Unfit for Trial in Girlfriend’s Murder Case
A Multimedia University student accused of murdering his girlfriend has been ruled mentally unfit to stand trial, pending a second psychiatric evaluation ordered by the High Court.
Trump Declares Ceasefire After Iran Missile Strike on US Base
President Donald Trump has announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran after nearly two weeks of intense conflict, marking the end of what he called the “12-Day War.” The declaration came shortly after Iran fired 14 missiles at a US military base in Qatar in response to American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
Kilifi Governor Mung’aro’s Father to Be Buried on June 25
Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro is mourning the death of his father, Mzee Gedion Baya Mung’aro, who died on June 15, 2025, while undergoing treatment at Kilifi County Hospital.
At Least 22 Killed in Syria’s First Suicide Attack on Church
At least 22 people have been killed in a suicide bombing that targeted a church in Damascus, Syria's capital, in what rights observers say is the first such attack inside a church since the Syrian conflict began in 2011.
Trump Suggests Iran Regime Change as Tensions Escalate
President Donald Trump has sparked renewed speculation over possible regime change in Iran following recent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear sites.
US Urges China to Stop Iran from Blocking Key Oil Route
The United States has asked China to use its influence to prevent Iran from closing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply flows.
Four Police Officers Die in Garissa Highway Crash, Two Injured
Four police officers lost their lives on Sunday evening, June 22, when their vehicle crashed along the Garissa Highway.
Bride Killed, Groom and Child Hurt in Shooting at French Wedding
A bride was shot and killed on her wedding night in the quiet village of Goult, near the southeastern French city of Avignon.
Iran Vows Retaliation After US Strikes Devastate Nuclear Sites
Iran has threatened to retaliate against US bases in the Middle East following devastating American air strikes on its nuclear facilities.
Dusit D2 Terror Accomplices Jailed 30 Years for Attack Role
Two men have been sentenced to 30 years in prison each for their roles in the 2019 Dusit D2 terror attack, one of Kenya’s deadliest terrorist incidents in recent years that claimed 21 lives and injured many more.
Police Officer Fatally Shot in Thika During Motorcycle Check
A police officer was fatally shot in Thika on Wednesday evening during a routine patrol involving the verification of motorcycle registration codes.
U.S. Tightens Social Media Rules for Student Visa Applicants
International students applying for U.S. visas will now face stricter scrutiny of their social media activity under new guidelines announced by the State Department.
Trump Weighs Iran Strike But Holds Off Final Decision for Now
President Donald Trump has approved potential military plans for a strike on Iran but has not yet made a final decision to launch an attack, according to U.S. intelligence and defense sources.